Hollyoaks’ Ste Hay is set to face another setback in his recovery as he returns to the village next week.
Just before the show’s time jump, Ste and his husband James were involved in a dramatic car explosion – revenge from the infamous Blue.
James tragically died in the explosion, and while Ste managed to survive, he remained in a coma for the next year.
When he woke up, he discovered lots of news about his family, including James’ death, Leah’s pregnancy and Lucas’ stint in Young Offenders.
As Ste struggled to come to terms with this news, he eventually decided that he would look after Leah’s baby while she left to study in America.
Ste has continued his long recovery process, and in scenes that will air next week, he will be discharged from hospital, with Tony helping him with this transition.
He is discharged into the care of his sister Leela, but Ste doesn’t want this, desperate to return to his old life and his old flat – which is where he last saw James.
But there is more heartbreak to come, when Tony breaks the news to Ste that he isn’t able to return, as his flat has been sold.
The family want to welcome him home at the Lomaxes, but Ste is in shock from this news and the reception falls flat.
Leela and Joel attempt to justify their decision for selling the flat, explaining that they had to pay for both Lucas’ solicitor and Leah’s costly university fees.
But Ste still isn’t happy, and he blames Leela for Lucas being locked up and for Leah getting pregnant while he was in a coma.
Later, Ste takes baby James for a walk to Price Slice, but he isn’t pleased to see Rex when he tries to lend a hand.
It becomes clear that Rex hasn’t yet been able to make amends, as Ste tells him that he and his family are evil and are responsible for his husband’s death.
Rex doesn’t give up, however, and tries to persuade Ste that he is on a path to redemption and wants to right his wrongs.
As Ste opens up to Rex, he breaks down in tears and sobs in the arms of his enemy. Will Ste be able to forgive?
Hollyoaks airs on Mondays-Wednesdays with its Channel 4 streaming premiere at 7am, then an E4 broadcast the same night at 7pm. Full episodes are also released on YouTube a week after their Channel 4 release.
